Gardening Articles: Care :: Tools & Equipment

Growing Hosta (page 2 of 2)

by National Gardening Association Editors

Care

Be mindful when working in the spring garden. Hostas emerge from their winter slumber later in the spring than many perennials--the hosta in the foreground has just sprouted, while the columbine in back is up and growing strong.

A little extra TLC will get new hosta plantings off to a strong start. Be sure to water the plants during dry spells, especially during their first growing season. Apply a 2-inch-thick mulch of compost or leaf mold each year to provide nutrients. Hostas growing in the shade of large trees may need supplemental waterings to help them compete with the tree roots.

The only major pests of hostas are slugs, which thrive in the moist, cool, shady areas that hostas love. Controls include handpicking, traps, and deterrents like a layer of diatomaceous earth or crushed eggshells spread underneath the plants.

Unlike many perennials, hostas do not need regular dividing to keep them growing strong. Established hosta plantings have been in place for 30 years and longer with no need for dividing.